Galatians – Week 1 – Day 2

READ 

Galatians 1:17-20 

17 Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to consult with those who were apostles before I was. Instead, I went away into Arabia, and later I returned to the city of Damascus.  

18 Then three years later I went to Jerusalem to get to know Peter, and I stayed with him for fifteen days. 19 The only other apostle I met at that time was James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I declare before God that what I am writing to you is not a lie. 

Paul did not seek counsel from other people when God radically changed his life. Neither did he share his experience with the church leaders at the time. Instead he went into the desert of Arabia and from there to Damascus. After three years he went to Jerusalem where he spent time with Peter and met James. Paul assured the Galatian readers he was not lying about this. 

REFLECT 

What occurred in your life after you were first saved? Have you shared this with others? 

RESPOND 

Encourage believers by letting them know that one of the best testimonies is that of a changed life. Ask them what changes they have noticed. Then encourage them to prepare a short testimony about it so they are ready to share it at any time. This way they will never have to wonder what to say. They could begin with the question, “Do you have a few minutes for me to tell you the changes Jesus has made in my life?” People are interested in hearing about people; plus, you are not telling them what they have to do, but what Jesus has done for you. No one can argue with that.